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Frequently Asked Questions about MACS

• What is MACS?

MACS is a unique patented system designed to inject a flush water additive, MACS Ultrafilm, into the cooling channels of outboards, stern drives, jet skis and marine motors.

The system consists of a flush kit injector and MACS Ultrafilm. MACS Ultrafilm is a corrosion inhibitor which protects marine alloys from 'pitting' and prevents the surface corrosion of ferrous metals. With the MACS injector attached during engine flush, a layer of MACS Ultrafilm forms and remains in your marine motor, protecting it against corrosion caused by salt or fresh water. The marine anti-corrosion properties of MACS Ultrafilm protect all common metals and alloys. MACS gives all kinds of boat engines a longer, more reliable life.

MACS injector attached to outboard motor


• What does MACS do?

It injects an additive into the engine during the flushing/cleaning process.


• What does MACS consist of?

An Injector Flush Kit packaged on a pictorial instruction card. MACS Ultrafilm is purchased separately in a variety of pack sizes.


• How does the MACS system work?

During an engine's flushing/cleaning process the MACS Injector is connected in line so that a measured dose of MACS Ultrafilm is injected into the flush water.


• What does MACS Ultrafilm do?

It does three things: It Cleans salt deposits and oxidised buildup using gentle detergents. It Protects by placing a molecular layer of corrosion inhibitors on exposed surfaces. It Lubricates moving parts such as water pumps and thermostats thus extending their working life.


• How much does MACS cost?

Only a very small fraction of the cost of a new engine. Contact your nearest distributor for pricing in your region or e-mail us at marsys@xtra.co.nz.


• When and how often do I use MACS?

Preferably after each use of your engine in salt water. Ultrafilm will last longer than one use in salt water, but its effect will diminish each time the engine is used and not treated. The cost per flush is small so treatment after each use is recommended. Use MACS at the end of the engine's flush cycle to maximise its effect.


• How much Ultrafilm do you use per flush?

Refer to the motor size table on the instructions page or on the back of the packaging.


• What is in MACS Ultrafilm?

It is an oil based product that cleans, protects and lubricates. Click here for a technical description.


• Is Ultrafilm toxic?

No. Ultrafilm is a non toxic biodegradable product. It is classified as a non-hazardous product.


• Do I need to use MACS after I use my boat in fresh water?

There is certainly less corrosion from fresh water use but some fresh water bodies contain high levels of corrosive sulphites and sulphates. Calcification occurs causing reduced cooling efficiency. The hotter an engine is running the greater the rate of corrosion. With inboard engines, exhaust gases trapped in the manifold region also cause problems.


• Can I use Ultrafilm for other purposes?

Ultrafilm's metal protection properties work equally well when sprayed on the outside of an engine. It is specifically designed for marine alloys but will work just as well on other metals. New uses are regularly being discovered and reported to us by Ultrafilm users.


• Where can I buy MACS?

Most marine product stores in New Zealand and Australia. For other regions contact your nearest distributor.


• What Ultrafilm pack sizes are available?

1 litre, 4 litre, 20 litre and 200 litre.


• How do I know if Ultrafilm is working?

By the lack of cooling related problems with your marine engine. Feedback from reputable MACS users shows a dramatic reduction in engine problems and longer engine life.


• How many flushes do I get out of a one litre bottle of Ultrafilm.

Between 15 and 40 depending on engine size. Usually about one boating season if used only to flush engine.


• What is the rate of dilution for barrel flushing?

For 70 litres of flush water (half a 44 gallon barrel) 100 to 150 mls is sufficient. This flush water may be retained and reused and strengthened as required. Replace after several uses as salt will build up in the solution.

NB: For first time flushing using this method, flush engine for 30 to 40 minutes. A nylon stocking may be placed over the propeller exhaust so that you can see the amount of gunk flushed out.


• What causes corrosion?

The elements necessary are water and air in contact with metal. All commercial metals contain impurities which, like salt water, accelerate any natural breakdown. Examples of this breakdown are the rusting of iron, the corroding of aluminium and the greening of copper. Removing any one of the necessary elements stops corrosion. Whilst impurities cannot be removed, salt, air and water can be prevented from contacting the metal by application of MACS Ultrafilm.


• When does corrosion occur?

Any time air and water are present on metal surfaces, and it is accelerated by minerals such as salt (sodium chloride). Therefore, corrosion occurs during actual use of the boat. Plain water flushing after salt use water slows corrosion by removing most (but not all) the salt, but cannot protect the motor when it is in actual use. Application of MACS Ultrafilm before use protects against corrosion during use.


• What harmful effects does corrosion have?

Salt is deposited onto the cooling channel surfaces. Just like hard water mineral deposits on the interior of hot water cylinder pipes, salt builds up to insulate the cooling system thereby reducing its efficiency and causing damage to marine motors. Overheating problems usually result.

Pitting corrosion occurs after salt has broken the alloy surface and it burrows into the actual motor block. Motor failure results when this process continues through to the cylinders or exterior resulting in expensive repairs and/or scrapping the motor.


• What if the motor is already corroded?

Use of MACS Ultrafilm will help remove corrosion deposits and protect against further damage. However, MACS Ultrafilm does not repair existing corrosion.


• Don’t sacrificial anodes stop corrosion?

Along with fresh water flushing, they do help reduce corrosion. However there are many variables which effect an anodes operation, which means effectiveness can vary from being good, to being totally ineffectual. The MACS system works in a unique manner to protect your marine equipment.

• How quickly does MACS Ultrafilm work?

The film forms almost immediately, but best results are obtained if the motor can drain for at least 4 hours before reuse.